What is it?
“Maskne” a term contrived during the COVID-19 pandemic, brings light to acne caused by the daily donning of a mask. It is considered to be a subtype of acne mechanica as it is due to textile-skin friction and occlusion generated by wearing a mask. Besides the genetic factors that influence the skin microbiota, external factors including the environment, pH, and temperature are all altered with mask-wearing.² One study found that wearing a mask for prolonged periods of time was “…directly proportional to the risk of maskne.”²
2 Major Causes
1. Textile-Skin Friction¹
Due to varying fabrics, masks can be a cause of skin inflammation which can lead to a worsening of certain dermatological conditions including acne, rosacea and eczema. Textile friction can cause both dehydration and increased sebum production to the underlying area.¹ For those with oily skin or living in a tropical/humid environment wearing a mask creates a microenvironment optimal for fungal infections of the skin due to increased warmth and moisture.² Dehydration and increased sebum are pro-comedogenic factors that can lead to occlusion and breakouts.¹
2. Occlusion²
Occlusion is associated with numerous dermatologic conditions and as a mixture of materials come in contact with our skin, breathability, moisture saturation and hygiene must be considered when choosing the best textile.² If you are on an acne medication consider speaking with the prescribing physician regarding any new onset of breakouts as there is a potential for increased skin irritation when conventional or botanical acne treatments are under occlusion.²
So, how can you manage it?
Hygiene
What if I can’t wash my face mask EVERY single day? While it is recommended to wash or use a fresh face mask daily. One study suggests applying a hot iron (356℉-428℉) to both sides of fabric masks to assist with disinfection.²
Active Botanicals
In some cases, Maskne can be managed with active botanical ingredients that have both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial action.²
Kira’s Pick:
Sun Protection
Zinc oxide an active ingredient in certain sunscreens provides a physical barrier against UVA and UVB rays and may even provide antimicrobial action for the treatment and prevention of acne.²
Kira’s Picks:
Pipette Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50
I get it, reapplication of sunscreen can be difficult, especially when on the go. If this is you, consider opting for Ultraviolet Protective (UPF) 50+ fabrics as this will aid in photoprotection and eliminate periodic reapplication of spf to the lower face.²
Kira’s Pick:
OK, you may be asking, but Kira, what mask do you wear?
Copper Oxide
Found to be self-sterilizing against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, hand, and environmental contamination.² Caution in those with a copper allergy.
enVy Copper Infused Face Mask (2 pack)
Let’s Chat
We’ve learned that wearing face masks appears to worsen acne in untreated patients leading to a decrease in quality of life.¹ Therefore, it is important to keep regular appointments with your skincare specialist even if it is via telemedicine. There are many causes for acne and your healthcare specialist will be able to tailor your treatment to your specific needs. A facial monthly or every 6 weeks is an integral part of my skincare regime. When it is safe, I prioritize taking mask breaks–between clients, outdoors, driving.
Being cooped up can be stressful on our mental health and our skin, so I try to squeeze in a 10 minute sweat session at least 4-5 days/week to get those feel-good endorphins circulating. I eat to feel good, I eat whole foods like vegetables and fruit. Refined foods, sugar and cheese depress the immune system and increase inflammation, if I don’t buy it, I’m not tempted to eat it at home. Yes, I too enjoy pizza, a burger and waffle fries sometimes, but you get the picture. I hope you learned a thing or two and some actionable steps to fight Maskne.
Let me know in the comments below if you plan to wear a mask after the mask mandates have been lifted. Personally, I’m thinking during travel wouldn’t be a bad idea, especially at airports and while using public transportation.
*Disclosure: Links included in this blog post might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that I provide, I may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you! Thank you for supporting my platform so I can continue to provide you with free content each month.*
Resources
- Damiani G, Gironi LC, Grada A, et al. COVID‐19 related masks increase severity of both acne (maskne) and rosacea (mask rosacea): Multi‐center, real‐life, telemedical, and observational prospective study. Wiley Online Library. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/dth.14848. Published February 2021.
- Teo WL. The “Maskne” microbiome – pathophysiology and therapeutics. Wiley Online Library. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ijd.15425. Published February 2021.
